Short exposures to common air pollutants shown to have distinct impacts on lung function and brain activity. Neurological diseases have been increasing for decades and there is now a greater appreciation that long term exposure to elevated levels of air pollution are associated in dementia risk
https://www.manchester.ac.uk/about/news/short-exposures-to-common-air-pollutants-shown-to-have-distinct-impacts-on-lung-function-and-brain-activity/
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New research by a collaboration of UK‑based scientists has revealed that common indoor and outdoor air pollutants can alter both brain and respiratory function within just four hours of exposure, offering key insights into how air pollution impacts brain health and may contribute to dementia risk.
Air pollution can influence the brain either directly, when harmful particles enter the brain, or indirectly, through inflammation in the lungs which then impacts the brain. Neurological diseases have been increasing for decades and there is now a greater appreciation that long term exposure to elevated levels of air pollution are associated in dementia risk. While we often categorise air quality by the total amount of particulate matter, this new study demonstrates that the source of the pollution matters as much as the quantity.
The findings in NPJ Clean Air reveal that different pollutant sources produce varied health effects even at identical concentrations in the air. Recognising these differences is essential for shaping public policy, improving clinical diagnosis and developing protective strategies. With an ever‑growing ageing population and increasing urbanisation, the public‑health imperative to mitigate neurological disease becomes increasingly urgent.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s44407-026-00068-3
Historically, though, air pollution levels were far higher than they are today. More open fires, more industrial pollution, lead in petrol and so on. And of course further back in time lighting was from candles, which if not trimmed properly emit serious amounts of smoke pollution. So how is this leading to an increase in neurological diseases?
It is interesting. I personally live right up a large road and wonder what effect that had on me
amen
all those people who still complain about nuclear waste please take a look in proportion at of how much harmful pollution fossil fuels spread around.
Great. My parents smoked like chimneys indoors and we had a gas furnace as well.
Why can’t the right be as angry with air pollution and micro plastics causing physical/mental issues instead of focusing on vaccines?
yup. look up the effects of elevated CO2 on cognitave function
we have allowed indutry to poison us to the point all the kids are growing up anxious a.f and their parents are getting senile prematurely
Probably a good idea to filter the air before you breath it in. Much like filtering water before you drink it.
Planes fly really close to the place i lived 12 years in, i wonder how much that has to do with my adhd and all that low iq